Hey guys, this is my 1st RX8 and I just got it in good running condition, but something started happening these last 3 days.

Facts:

1) Bought the car in semi-running condition
2) Was in an accident, alignment is way off (getting that done tomorrow)
3) New engine & new transmission were put into the car
4) New battery

Everything was fine, no check engine light etc. I noticed a pattern started occuring. If I drive the car for more than 10-20 minutes on highway at a steady high speed, then I get off the exit and stop at a red light and try to run again when it's green the car starts ACTING UP in 1st and 2nd gear.

Symptoms (in order of appearance):

1) Power steering light comes on, and steering becomes stiff
2) Tire pressure sensor light comes on
3) Traction control light comes on
4) Transmission kicks twice (kicks car backwards loudly)
5) Speedometer/dashboard starts blinking really fast (like static) and so do the headlights of the car

The steering will stay stiff until the car is turned off and turned on again. But once it goes into 3rd-4th gear the car drives normal again (besides the steering). Sounds like an electrical problem to me.. I know the PCM is connected to everything (transmission, ignition, tire pressure etc.)

I checked both battery terminals and removed oxidation.

I turn the car off, turn it back on, and everything's perfect until another highway-run.

Where should I start?

 

Start with the power steering electrical connector.
Disconnect it, clean it, reinstall it, and see how things turn out.

There is a good DIY for locating the connector.
Hunt it down and give it a shot.

BC.

 

Can't seem to find the DIY in the search.

Update: I noticed that the problems occur after 15-20 mins of driving, stopping, and then speeding up faster than usual.

Can I get some input? I really need to fix this.

 

Connector is between airbox and overflow bottle, down on top of the rad.